... it dispels family claims that Merah stated he was innocent. It would also be the only independant source, not relying directly on the French police and intelligence, that Merah was involved. Again, if the audio is specific.

... to quell any uncertainties anyone had about the French government using his death to put the issue to rest without looking for the "real" killer. Although the French government is unhappy about the leak, it is good that actual evidence came to light to the public, as the seige was not covered from close-up and until now every link between Merah and the attacks had been the word of the French police and government.